Question

Identify a valid argument against the notion that genetic engineering of food is unethical because it involves human tampering with nature.

Answer 1

Genetic engineering of food is not necessarily unethical as humans have been modifying crops through traditional breeding practices for thousands of years. Genetic engineering can address important issues like improving nutritional properties and crop yields.

Step-by-step explanation:

An argument against the notion that genetic engineering of food is unethical because it involves human tampering with nature is that humans have been modifying the characteristics of crops for thousands of years through traditional breeding practices. These practices also result in permanent genetic modifications and produce new traits in crops. Additionally, genetic engineering can be used to address important issues such as increasing nutritional properties and improving crop yields, which can help in feeding the growing population.

Answer 2

Traditional breeding practices also involve human intervention similar to genetic engineering, which has been improving crop traits for millennia. The NASEM report found no inherent risks in consuming GE crops compared to traditionally bred ones. Genetic engineering can be seen as ethical under utilitarian principles if it benefits the greater good by enhancing food security and health.

Step-by-step explanation:

A valid argument against the notion that genetic engineering of food is unethical because it involves human tampering with nature is that traditional breeding practices, which have been used for thousands of years, also involve human intervention and alter an organism's inherent traits. In fact, nearly all crops consumed today are the result of selective breeding, such as the transformation of teosinte into maize. Furthermore, the 2016 comprehensive report by the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) titled 'Genetically Engineered Crops: Experiences and Prospects' indicates that genetically engineered (GE) crops are subject to rigorous study and have been found not to be inherently riskier to human health than crops developed by traditional breeding methods.

Considering the approach of utilitarianism, genetic engineering could be ethically acceptable if it contributes to the greater good by improving crop yields, nutritional value, and assisting in the fight against diseases. This perspective considers both the potential benefits and harms of genetic modification and advocates for interventions that improve overall welfare.